What It Means to Deny Yourself and Follow Christ
Matthew BellShare
In today’s world, we’re often told to “follow your heart,” “be true to yourself,” and “do what makes you happy.” But Jesus gave us a radically different message. In Luke 9:23 (KJV), Jesus said:
“If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.”
This powerful statement flips modern thinking upside down. But what does it really mean to deny yourself and follow Christ? Is it just about saying “no” to sin, or is there more to it?
Let’s break it down through Scripture, explore what Jesus meant, and understand how this command leads to deeper freedom, purpose, and intimacy with God.
Denying Yourself: What It Really Means
To “deny yourself” is not about hating yourself or giving up all earthly pleasures just for the sake of suffering. It’s about surrendering your own will, desires, and plans to God. It means saying, “Not my will, but Yours be done.”
“Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself...” – Matthew 16:24 (KJV)
Denying yourself means putting God first—even when it’s uncomfortable, unpopular, or inconvenient. It’s about turning from the life of self-centeredness to a life centered on Christ.
Taking Up Your Cross Daily
In Jesus' time, the cross was a symbol of death, not decoration. To “take up your cross” means to die to your own selfish ambitions and be willing to suffer for the sake of the Gospel.
“And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.” – Matthew 10:38 (KJV)
This isn’t a one-time decision. Jesus says to do it daily. Each day, we’re called to lay down our rights, comfort, and pride, and choose God’s way over our own. This may mean enduring hardship, rejection, or sacrifice for the sake of Christ—but it also means walking in His power and purpose.
Following Jesus: More Than Just Believing
Many people believe in Jesus, but fewer truly follow Him. To follow Christ is to obey Him, imitate Him, and allow Him to lead every part of your life.
“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” – John 10:27 (KJV)
Following Jesus means aligning your life with His teaching—loving your enemies, forgiving those who hurt you, pursuing righteousness, and putting others before yourself.
This journey is not always easy, but it’s filled with grace, growth, and eternal reward.
Why Denying Yourself Leads to True Life
Jesus never asked us to deny ourselves just to make life harder. In fact, He promises that when we surrender our lives to Him, we gain something far greater—real, abundant, eternal life.
“For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it.” – Luke 9:24 (KJV)
The world says fulfillment comes from indulging your desires. But Jesus teaches that true fulfillment comes from surrender. It’s a paradox—by losing your life for Christ, you actually find your true identity, purpose, and joy.
How to Start Denying Yourself and Following Christ
If you want to start following Jesus more deeply, here are a few practical steps to begin:
- Spend time in prayer daily, asking God to align your will with His.
- Read Scripture to understand what it means to live like Jesus.
- Say “yes” to God’s calling even when it costs something—whether it’s your time, comfort, or reputation.
- Say “no” to sin and selfish desires, trusting that God’s way is better.
- Surround yourself with other believers who challenge and encourage you to grow.
It’s not about perfection—it’s about daily, intentional surrender.
The Reward of Following Jesus
Though the road of self-denial can be hard, it is filled with the peace, purpose, and power of God. You gain a relationship with the Savior who gave His life for you. You walk in the plans He has designed for you. And you look forward to an eternal reward far greater than anything this world can offer.
“If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us.” – 2 Timothy 2:12 (KJV)
God honors those who follow Him fully. And when you choose to deny yourself and carry your cross, you are walking the same path Jesus walked—one of victory, grace, and everlasting life.
Final Thought
Choosing to deny yourself and follow Christ may go against everything the world tells you—but it’s the only path to true freedom and purpose. Jesus calls us to surrender, but in return, He gives us life, joy, and peace that nothing else can provide.
If this helped you, share it with a friend who could benefit from this message. You never know how God might use it to encourage or transform someone’s life.
